There’s nothing quite like a perfectly baked potato. Crispy skin on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and finished with melting butter and the gentle bite of fresh chives. It’s simple, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light main course, this classic recipe never disappoints.
This baked potato recipe uses russet potatoes for their starchy texture and ability to crisp up nicely in the oven. The addition of cold, cubed butter ensures it melts slowly into the hot, steaming center of the potato, delivering a rich, creamy flavor in every bite. Topped with a pinch of salt, freshly ground pepper, and chopped chives or green onions, this dish is pure comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter (cold, cubed)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or green onion
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 200°C (400°F). A hot oven ensures the potato skin becomes crispy while the inside bakes to a fluffy texture. Allow the oven to fully preheat before placing the potatoes inside.
2. Prepare the potatoes
Begin by thoroughly scrubbing the potatoes under running water. Since they’ll be baked with their skins on, it’s important to clean them well. Pat the potatoes completely dry with a kitchen towel or paper towel.
Next, using a fork, pierce each potato 4 to 5 times. This step is important as it allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting in the oven.
If you like a slightly seasoned and crispier skin, you can rub each potato lightly with olive oil or neutral vegetable oil. Sprinkle a little salt over the skin if desired. This is optional but enhances the texture and flavor of the skin.
3. Bake the potatoes
Place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the preheated oven. You can also use a baking tray if you prefer, though baking directly on the rack often yields a crispier skin. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes.
To check for doneness, insert a skewer or sharp knife into the center of the potato—it should slide in easily with little resistance. The skin should feel crisp, and the inside should be soft and steamy.
4. Serve the baked potatoes
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and place them on a plate or cutting board. Using a small knife, make a slit along the top of each potato lengthwise. Gently squeeze the ends of the potato to open it slightly. This exposes the soft interior, ready to absorb the toppings.
Use a fork to fluff up the insides of the potato just a little, creating space for the butter to melt through. Place a cube of cold butter into each potato and let it melt naturally from the heat inside. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or green onions. Their fresh, mildly pungent flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy butter and earthy potato.
Serving Suggestions
Baked potatoes with butter and chives are delicious on their own but can also be served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, top your potato with grated cheese, sour cream, or crumbled bacon. You can also turn this dish vegetarian-friendly with steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms.
If you’re entertaining or cooking for a crowd, consider setting up a baked potato bar. Offer a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, caramelized onions, salsa, olives, jalapeños, or chopped herbs so everyone can customize their potato.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftover baked potatoes, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the potatoes in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but this may soften the skin. To preserve the crispiness of the skin, reheating in the oven is the best choice.
Why Use Cold Butter?
Adding cold butter to the freshly baked potato helps control the melting process. As it slowly melts into the hot potato flesh, it releases its creamy flavor gradually, creating a rich mouthfeel with every forkful. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the overall taste and experience of the dish.
Potato Varieties and Alternatives
Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content and fluffy interior. However, you can also try Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer a creamier texture with a slightly buttery flavor even before adding toppings. Keep in mind that smaller potatoes will require less baking time, so adjust accordingly.
Final Thoughts
There’s beauty in simplicity, and this baked potato with butter and chives proves it. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a warm, flavorful dish that feels indulgent without being heavy. Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or adding it to a special dinner spread, this classic recipe is always a welcome addition to the table.